MCP1600-E005E26 100Gb/s QSFP28 Direct Attach Copper Cable
1. Product Overview
The Mellanox MCP1600-E005E26 is a high-performance, passive Direct Attach Copper (DAC) cable engineered for 100Gb/s EDR InfiniBand and high-speed Ethernet applications. This 5-meter cable offers a reliable, cost-efficient alternative to fiber optics for short-range data center interconnects. Designed for superior signal integrity and low power consumption, it ensures robust performance in high-density networking environments.
2. Key Characteristics
- Supports data rates up to 100Gb/s
- Low power consumption: <0.1W
- Hot-pluggable QSFP28 form factor
- Compliant with SFF-8685, SFF-8636, and RoHS standards
- LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen) jacket for enhanced safety
- Lead-free and halogen-free PCB construction
3. Technology & Standards
This passive fiber cable complies with industry standards including SFF-8685 for mechanical specifications and SFF-8636 for I²C management. It supports InfiniBand EDR and Ethernet protocols, ensuring broad compatibility with Mellanox and third-party hardware. The cable uses four shielded twinaxial copper pairs, each capable of 25 Gb/s data transmission.
4. Working Principle
The MCP1600-E005E26 operates as a passive electrical link between QSFP28 ports. It transmits signals through copper conductors without signal retiming or amplification. The integrated EEPROM stores vital product information, accessible via the host system’s I²C interface, enabling plug-and-play functionality and system recognition.
5. Applications
Ideal for data centers, high-performance computing (HPC), and enterprise networking environments. Commonly used for:
- Top-of-rack (ToR) switching
- Server-to-switch interconnects
- Storage area networks (SANs)
- Network appliances and cluster connectivity
6. Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
| Data Rate | 100 Gb/s |
| Length | 5 m |
| Cable Gauge | 26 AWG |
| Connector | QSFP28 |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to 70°C |
| Power Consumption | < 0.1 W |
7. Advantages
- Lower latency and power usage compared to active optical cables
- Superior durability and bend radius performance
- Designed for high signal integrity with BER < 1E-15
- Cost-effective solution for short-reach applications
8. Service & Support
All Mellanox passive fiber cable products include a 1-year limited warranty. We offer global shipping, 24/7 technical support, and flexible OEM/ODM services. Bulk pricing available for large deployments.
9. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is this cable compatible with 100GbE switches?
A: Yes, the MCP1600-E005E26 is compatible with 100GbE and InfiniBand EDR switches supporting QSFP28 ports.
Q: What is the maximum distance supported?
A: This passive copper cable is designed for short reaches up to 5 meters.
Q: Does it require external power?
A: No, this is a passive direct attach cable that draws minimal power from the host port.
10. Precautions
- Do not exceed the minimum bend radius of 10x cable diameter near connectors
- Ensure operating temperature and humidity are within specified ranges
- Verify compatibility with host hardware before purchase
- Avoid bending or twisting during installation to prevent damage
11. Company Introduction
With over a decade of industry experience, we operate a large-scale production facility and maintain a strong technical team. We represent leading brands including Mellanox, Ruckus, Aruba, and Extreme Networks. Our inventory includes over 10 million units of network switches, adapters, wireless access points, controllers, and cables. We provide competitive pricing, reliable supply, and round-the-clock customer and technical support, earning a strong reputation in global markets.
